What Is Walk and Talk Therapy? A Simple Guide for First-Timers

If the idea of sitting in a room, face-to-face, talking about personal things feels uncomfortable — you’re not alone.

Walk and talk therapy offers a different way to access support: by walking while you talk, rather than sitting still in a traditional therapy room.

For many people, this simple shift makes therapy feel more natural, less intense, and easier to begin.

What is walk and talk therapy?

Walk and talk therapy is a therapeutic approach where conversations happen while walking — often outdoors, sometimes over the phone, and always at a pace that feels comfortable.

The focus isn’t fitness or distance.It’s still therapy — just delivered in a way that supports movement, ease, and real-world integration.

Sessions may take place:

• Outdoors in nature

• In local neighbourhoods

• Or remotely, with the client walking while speaking to their therapist on the phone

How is it different from traditional therapy?

The biggest difference is how the conversation happens, not the quality of support.

Instead of sitting across from someone, you’re:

• Moving side-by-side

• Looking forward rather than making constant eye contact

• Letting movement support the conversation

Many people find this reduces pressure and self-consciousness, making it easier to speak openly.

Why walking can make talking easier

Walking creates gentle, rhythmic movement that supports the nervous system.

This can:

• Reduce feelings of overwhelm

• Help thoughts flow more naturally

• Make silence feel less awkward

For some people, emotions feel less intense when discussed while moving, which can make difficult topics more manageable.

Do you have to be fit or confident outdoors?

No.

Walk and talk therapy is:

• Adapted to your pace

• Flexible in location

• Focused on comfort, not performance

Some people walk slowly. Others pause when they need to. Some prefer quiet streets, others nature paths. There’s no “right” way to do it.

Is walk and talk therapy still effective?

Yes.

The therapeutic relationship, skills, and boundaries remain the same. What changes is the environment and delivery, which for many people improves engagement and follow-through.

For people who struggle to:

• Sit still

• Open up face-to-face

• Stay present when overwhelmed

Walking can support emotional processing rather than distract from it.

Who often finds this approach helpful?

Walk and talk therapy may suit you if you:

• Feel more at ease when moving

• Think more clearly while walking

• Find traditional therapy settings intimidating

• Want therapy to feel practical and integrated into daily life

It’s particularly appealing to people who value flexibility, autonomy, and a more natural setting.

Is it okay if this isn’t for you?

Absolutely.

Some people prefer seated, indoor therapy — and that’s valid too. Therapy works best when the approach fits how you naturally process and communicate.

The goal isn’t to choose what’s popular — it’s to choose what feels supportive.

Finding a therapist who offers walk and talk therapy

Not all therapists offer movement-based or outdoor sessions, which is why directories like this exist.

Our directory helps you find practitioners who work with:

• Walk and talk therapy

• Nature-based approaches

• Movement-integrated therapy

So you can explore options and choose what feels right for you.

Curious to explore walk and talk therapy?

Browse our directory to find a therapist offering walk and talk or movement-based sessions that suit your needs and location.

👉 Explore the directory